France Orders Third Barracuda-class SSN

Defence procurement agency DGA has placed an order with DCNS for the third Barracuda-type nuclear-powered attack submarine for the French Navy. This order comes under the framework programme contract awarded to DCNS in December 2006 calling for the delivery of six next-generation SSNs between 2017 and 2028. Barracuda-type SSNs will replace the six Rubis-class boats currently in service. The Barracuda weapons payload will include next-generation type F21 heavyweight torpedoes, SM39 anti-ship missiles and MdCN-type naval cruise missiles. The boats will also be fully equipped for missions with Nato naval forces and special operations. DCNS is the programme prime contractor. The first-of-class Suffren and second-of-class Duguay-Trouin are under construction at the Group’s Cherbourg shipyard supported by DCNS centres around the country.